Effect of Cu particles on the ablation properties of C/C composites

To improve the ablation property, Cu particles were introduced into carbon/carbon (C/C) composites through liquid precursor infiltration combined with in-situ reaction. Compared to pure C/C composites, the modified composites displayed better mechanical property and ablation resistance under oxyacetylene torch when the Cu content was below 8 wt. %. For C/C-Cu composites with 8 wt. % Cu, a 14% decline of linear ablation rate was obtained while defective fibers and laminar matrix survived after ablation. Analyses of ablation behavior depending on ablation time indicated that overflowing of Cu gas weakened the scouring of ablation gas and the Cu gas reduced the partial pressure of oxidizing species, which led to the improved ablation property.